Voluntouring is a series introducing readers to volunteer opportunities in the Wisconsin Rapids area. Without the help of volunteers, many events and organizations would not be able to function. Tight budgets and expanding needs provide ample opportunities to help out. Many opportunities don't demand a lot of time or expertise — the biggest requirement is a desire to help — whether it be for an hour or more.

GRAND RAPIDS – The South Wood County Humane Society is a nonprofit organization that typically cares for more than 150 animals, mostly cats and dogs.

The shelter's staff relies on volunteers to help with that care — including walking dogs, cleaning cat kennels and general cleaning.

Getting started is easy — those interested in volunteering fill out a one-page application, which includes a list of available opportunities, and times open to volunteer.

"It's just to let us know exactly what you're looking for," said Beth Peabody, pet care coordinator at the shelter.

The application also alerts the staff to any health issues or restrictions the volunteer might have and if the potential volunteer has ever been convicted of any animal-related crime.

My hour at the shelter was spent under the direction of Amy Zimmerman, a receptionist at Woodhaven Animal Health clinic in Plover. Zimmerman also is a "very part-time" employee at the SWCHS.

Depending on the number of cats at the shelter, the daily cleaning of cages can take anywhere from four to eight hours — so the staff appreciates any and all help they can get, even if it is just for an hour or so.

"Cats are pretty particular about being clean," Zimmerman said.

The process was pretty easy: Remove the cat from the cage and put the furry critter in a portable kennel. Then remove and empty the cat dish and litter tray. I now understood why the shelter always is in need of food and litter donations — it didn't take long for the garbage can to fill.

With the cat out and the bedding, food dish and litter box removed, it was time to wipe out and sanitize the cages. Yes, sometimes the cats left a little "present" behind, but that was easily swept out. The bedding got a good shake, and replaced with a fresh one, if needed (that's where the donations of old towels comes in). Fresh water and food is dished up, and then the cat is returned to the cage.

That was it. Like I said, pretty simple — well, except for the cat that jumped out of my arms when I returned him to the cage. Luckily the SWCHS pros were able to get him back in his cage, so all was good. Those who do this job might want to bring a change of clothes — you do tend to pick up a little hair. There's not too much physical ability needed, though you do have to bend down for the bottom row of cages.

If the cat room isn't for you, just check out the other opportunities. You don't even need to love animals —help is needed with laundry, as well.

The staff is friendly, helpful, and grateful to have extra hands just about any time.

Deb Cleworth can be reached at 715-423-7200, ext. 6730 or deb.cleworth@cwnews.net. Follow her on Twitter @DebCleworth.

•South Wood County Humane Society staff recommend calling a day or two ahead if you want to volunteer. While the shelter has set open hours to the public, volunteers are needed during off hours, and staff like to know when to expect volunteers.

•The South Wood County Humane Society is located at 3621 64th St. N., just off of Highway 54. Call 715-423-0505; email swchs@swchs.com or go to www.swchs.com for more information.

•Shelter hours are noon to 5 p.m. Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays; noon to 7 p.m. Tuesdays, and noon to 4 p.m. Saturdays. The shelter is closed to the public Wednesdays and Sundays, but available for volunteers.

•Upcoming events: Animal education weekend, 10 a.m. to noon April 18, and 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 19. Heart of Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce, 1120 Lincoln St. $10 per day, or $15 for both days. Annual 5K walk/run and plant sale, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 9 at the shelter. Go to website for more information.